Dramatic footage appears to show a Ukrainian soldier shooting down a Russian Shahed attack drone with a rifle while riding in the open cockpit of a propeller plane. The video captures the serviceman taking aim at the unmanned aircraft before opening fire in mid-air.
According to the available details, the plane is flown by a pilot in the front cockpit while the soldier is positioned behind, giving him a clear view to engage the target. The unusual setup highlights a close-range method of countering drones during an aerial pursuit.
Shahed drones have been widely used by Russia in attacks on Ukrainian targets, making interception a constant challenge. The video has drawn attention because it shows a low-tech but high-risk response, with a soldier using a rifle rather than a more advanced weapons system.
While only a short portion of the report is available, the clip underlines the improvisation and danger involved in Ukraine's air defense efforts. It also offers a striking image of how the fight against attack drones can unfold far from conventional battlefield scenes.